Ready to get up close and personal with one of Bristol's most iconic landmarks and uncover its fascinating history? This two-hour historical hard hat tour will introduce you to the design, construction and rediscovery of Brunel's Leigh Woods abutment and the secrets of its vaulted chambers.
When construction of the Clifton Suspension Bridge began in 1831, the eyes of the world were on Isambard Kingdom Brunel and his bold plan to build the highest and longest bridge in the world.
The ambitious young engineer encountered many difficulties with the project and many of the bridge’s secrets were lost when he died before the project was complete. In 2002 an intrepid team of engineers and construction workers rediscovered Brunel’s hidden vaults. This is your chance to take a look inside!
Join volunteer guide and historian, Gordon, who will explain how the design of Brunel’s bridge was shaped by others' influence, and how the young newcomer was able to make his name. With the help of Gordon’s ever-expanding bag of props and artefacts, you’ll hear all about the people who built and rediscovered the vaults before donning a hard hat, descending a ladder and taking a look for yourself. It's set to be a real adventure!
Important information:
Age restrictions: 7+
Adult (General Admission) | £20 |
Sorry, there are currently no dates available
The good news is that we’re expecting more to be added really soon!
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As a Bristolian you would think I had visited all the highlights of our great City, but this trip...
Very informative well delivered tour by our guides Gordon/Diane an enjoyable 2hrs. Would certain...
An informative, entertaining tour and the chambers are spectacular.
The guide Gordon was amazing and made the experience a lot of fun with lots of knowledge
As a Bristolian you would think I had visited all the highlights of our great City, but this trip proves there are still some secrets Bristol has to offer. Who knew the two towers weren’t identical in design? The opportunity to go inside the vaults of one of the towers gives a completely different perspective to the Suspension Bridge. If you were impressed before with the expertise of the 19th century engineers and skills of the builders, then this takes you to another level. Highly recommended!
Very informative well delivered tour by our guides Gordon/Diane an enjoyable 2hrs. Would certainly recommended
An informative, entertaining tour and the chambers are spectacular.
The guide Gordon was amazing and made the experience a lot of fun with lots of knowledge
Very interesting to learn the history behind it. Very exiting once you step inside the vault. Not what I expected to see at all. It was magical.
Anybody who is ummming and ahhhing about doing this tour , please do it , its amazing
So interesting - a bridge of outstanding interest so please I attended-Thank you
really worthwhile and interesting
A hidden gem
Informative and entertaining a great guide
The tour was absolutely fascinating! I had no idea the vaults even existed! Our tour guides Laura and Gordon were extremely knowledgeable and very personable. I haven’t stopped raving about this tour to friends and family!
An amazing tour with the joy of seeing something only discovered 20 years ago. Utterly fabulous!
Gordon was a very informative and fun guide and we thoroughly enjoyed this fabulous discovery
Informative, interesting and humorous guide. Would recommend to friends and relatives. Well done Gordon and thank you.
Very informative, great time.
Booked for dad & 5 friends, they thoroughly enjoyed it (& Gordon’s commentary).
Excellent couple of hours, packed with interesting information. The guide involved everyone in the group. A really enjoyable tour but probably not one for small children. Would definitely recommend to others.
Particular thanks to the host who is a volunteer, he was knowledable and clearly put considerable time and effort into making the experience enjoyable for all.
A really excellent guide and an unusual experience
This was a great tour with a lovely tour guide. I learnt so much! Thank you
Definitely would recommend
Our guide, Gordon, was superb.
The experience was amazing.
Time slipped by as we were so enthralled.
Getting into the vaults was easy.
We were amazed at the size and feat of engineering.
We highly recommend this trip.
Ask your question directly to Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Sorry, there are currently no dates available
The good news is that we’re expecting more to be added really soon!
Want to be the first to find out when new dates are released? Register below to notify the host of your interest
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